Which preamp Dodd or Cary slp-98L

Mrjstark,
I read through the thread on the circle and I really don't see a "shoot out", I did see a bunch of guys sitting around and listening to music but no real comments of "Dodd vs Modwright". Could you point me to the shoot out?? I'd like to read the results of the shoot out.

Regards,
John
PS-I disagree with your remarks about Cary but we all have our opinions, perhaps products are differnt rather than better or worse.

Here , see this link - from another Dodd thread

I would also like to add , that to it is based on my experience and preferences of the sound that is closest to my taste.
What I look in the gear in general is musicality that is reflection of emotions, engagement, window to the soul of the performers and the place where music sleeps.

Modwright, being very detail, crisp and transparent failed in the very essence of music reproduction - middle range. Besides, the overwhelming domination of treble and upper bass I felt the overly bright, edgy and often - ear piercing heights were the Modwright's biggest flaw. In contrast, Dodd had better tonality, background, inner detail and most of all - very rich, intimate and seductive middle range that was realistically maped within the listening space. Vocals on Modwright seemed to be pushed back at least few feet back and behind the main speakers.
Beig sensitive to overly bright, harsh and edgy sound. I must say that it is the Dodd that made the music as a whole. Great overall sound........and the battle was won by Dodd by small margin IMO.

Take care

Mariusz

I thought from your earlier post there was a thread somewhere about the shootout where all the participants had shared their take on the comparison. Both are great Pre's to be sure, I've owned a couple different Dodd pieces in the past and Gary makes terrific stuff. I was more curious to read more about the comparison from multiple points of view, not just yours as a Dodd owner, especially from a veteran group like the New York Audio Rave.

I've never heard the Dodd but recently listened to a Cary SLP-98L and was very impressed. It certainly leans slightly warm compared to other pre's I've heard but not overly so.

I would say slightly dark is an accurate description depending on what you compare it to, but again not overly so.

It provides layer after layer of texture and is extremely musical. Vocals, strings, horns all sound magical through it.

I have no experience with either the Modwright or the Dodd but the Cary is a steal at what they are selling for here.

Mrjstark,
Thank you for the link but, I'm still not seeing a shoot out. However,I am seeing a VERY enthusiastic Dodd owner rave about how great his premap is vs others. Again, could you please point us to the thread where this "shoot out" took place so we can read the opinions of others at this event.

Please understand, I'm not attacking you but remarks such as "No comparison." are rather strong IMO.
If you love your preamp great, just don't see the point of pushing it so hard while slamming others preamps in the process. Like I said before; different yes but, not necessarily better or worse. Now of course better to your ears, in your system? Sure.

As a side note; Gary makes fantastic preamps and I'm quite familiar with them but I have yet to hear this incredible difference you are referring to.

Sincerely,
John